Kupwara, June 11: Every year, during summer, the lush, fertile and pristine grasslands of Machhal Valley attracts hundreds of Bakkarwals to their traditional grazing grounds with thousands of livestock. Machhal grasslands provide the Bakkarwals with excellent meadows and climatic conditions for their herd to grow and they return happily after a profitable stay, before onset of winters. This year saw the influx of this nomadic community earlier owing early receding of snow due to low precipitation in March.
Indian Army at Macchal Sector welcomed the Bakkarwals from as far as Naushera, Rajouri and Poonch with open arms and warm hospitality. In the lush green meadows of Indira Bhaik where maximum concentration of Bakkarwals exists an interactive session titled “Biryani Pe Charcha” was organised on 10 June. The Bakkarwals shared their problems regarding veterinary support, medical requirements and mobile schooling issues. The Army officials promised full support. A total of 200 Bakkarwals attended the interaction and the event further enhanced the warmth and affection between the nomadic community and the Indian Army.
